Visiting Places
Kathmandu Valley
Boudhanath Stupa
One of the world's largest stupas and the heart of Tibetan Buddhist Kathmandu.
Kathmandu ValleyBagmati Province
Boudhanath is among the largest spherical stupas on earth and the center of Tibetan Buddhist life in Kathmandu. Pilgrims circle it clockwise spinning prayer wheels, especially at dawn and dusk. The surrounding ring of monasteries and rooftop cafés makes it one of the most atmospheric corners of the city.
Known for
- One of the largest stupas in the world
- Tibetan Buddhist hub
At a glance
- Region
- Kathmandu Valley
- Province
- Bagmati
- Getting there
- About 6 km north-east of Thamel; 20–30 min by taxi. A small entry fee applies.
- Best time
- Dawn and dusk for the prayer crowds; Losar (Tibetan New Year, Feb/Mar) for festivities.
Things to see & do
- Joining the kora — the clockwise pilgrim circuit — at dawn or dusk
- Spinning the ring of prayer wheels around the stupa's base
- Rooftop-café views over the whitewashed dome and its watching Buddha eyes